Description:
WB165:  Antique figured rosewood writing box with rounded edges, and countersunk brass carrying handles, inlaid to the top and front with fine inlays of mother of pearl and white metal (pewter) depicting stylized curved foliage, opening to an embossed velvet  writing surface and compartments for writing implements and paper. The box also has an unusual sprung secret drawer  hidden under the pen-tray. Circa 1840. 

Origin: UK

Circa: 1840.

Size: 40.6 cm by 24.3 cm by 13.5 cm: 16  inches by 9.6 inches by 5.3 inches.

Condition: Good over all, working lock and key. The original velvet writing surface is worn especially in the middle  See images.

The box opens to a velvet writing surface and compartments for writing implements and paper. 

The writing surface is framed by a crossbanding of rosewood with the grain running on the diagonal for interest

 Detail of the curved pen-tray. The  secret drawer is hidden under the compartment on the right.

 Detail of the elaborate inlaid mother of pearl escutcheon. The box has a working lock and key.

 At first sight the box looks as if it does not have any secret drawers. Further examination reveals that there is an unaccounted for space to the right of the curved pen tray.

When the divider is pulled up a sprung drawer comes out.

When the divider is pulled up a sprung drawer comes out.

 Detail of the mother of pearl inlay. When looked at with magnification the fine marks left by the piercing  saw are just visible.

 Detail of the mother of pearl cartouche inlaid in the middle of the top